Title: Science Supporting the Economic and Environmental Benefits of Using Wood and Wood Products in Green Building Construction

Source: USDA Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory, General Technical Report, FPL-GTR-206, 2011

Author(s): Ritter, Michael A.; Skog, Kenneth; Bergman, Richard

Publication Year: 2011  View PDF » Mail this web page's link »

Publication Series: General Technical Reports Associated Research Project(s):   FPL-4851-MA Abstract: The objective of this report is to summarize the scientific findings that support the environmental and economic benefits of using wood and wood products in green building construction. Despite documented advantages in many peer-reviewed scientific articles, most building professionals and members of the public do not recognize wood as a renewable resource or the role that efficient wood utilization plays in mitigating climate change and promoting healthy forests. Research and development of wood products and building systems also are lagging behind that of other materials. Both scientific advancement in the areas of life cycle analysis and development of new technologies for improved and extended wood utilization are needed to continue to advance wood as a green construction material. We provide three research and technology transfer recommendations that will allow USDA to help to achieve its climate change objectives while creating jobs, bolstering the competitive position and long-term economic stability of the industry, and reducing U.S. dependence on foreign oil. Keywords: Wood, green building, sustainability, environment, life cycle assessment, sustainable buildings, sustainable construction, product life cycle, sustainable engineering, design, construction, standards Publication Review Process: Informally Refereed (Peer-Reviewed) File size: 619 kb(s) Date posted: 12/20/2011 This publication is also viewable on Treesearch:  view RITS Product ID: 41299